I'm always interested in highlighting local businesses that are doing good things on the green front. And recently I had the opportunity to sit down with two staff members from Poplar Springs Inn & Spa.

Anita Carshult, Director of Special Events and Sarah Stanton, Inn & Spa Manager, were kind enough to take some time to tell me about some of the exciting initiatives under way at Poplar Springs.

First of all, I'm very excited by their efforts to incorporate more local food into their menus. Local farms are providing seasonal produce, beef, poultry, cheese and eggs. Lavendar froma local farm is being used in both the restaurant and spa. Local game is served in the restaurant during the fall and winter. Work is under way on an herb garden on the property. The herbs would be used in both the restaurant and spa. And plans are in the works for a vineyard on the property!

The restaurant currently features many local Virginia wines. And they have recently added biodynamic wines as well as some organic vodkas.

The spa is also incorporating local grape skins in some of their products. And their signature treatments are all handmade on site.

On the energy front, they've installed a geothermal system for heating and cooling. LED candles are beiong used in the spa and restaurant.

They are working on reducing water usage by reducing the amount of linens used in the spa.

And I'm also happy to report that they're working to encourage local people to spend more time with them. They've added a new light fare menu available in the lounge Thursday through Sunday from 3:30 to closing. No jackets are required, no 5 course meals, just a menu of light, delicious foods a great selection of adult beverages and the chance to unwind in beautiful surroundings.

They're also added dinner on Sundays from 5:30 to 8:30. Many of you may already have tried their wonderful Sunday brunch from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

And, they've been doing Date Nights this summer. For a discounted price you get a three course dinner, bottle of wine and an outdoor movie projected on the barn. The cost is $55 on Friday nights and $65 on Saturdays.

I'm looking forward to hearing more about their plans for green initiatives and hope to see many of you in the lounge one evening, relaxing after work!